The Effects of Social Media

Story image

The image shows a colourful hand-drawn mind-map titled “The Effects of Social Media”, divided into ways social media can help or harm.

Help 1: Motivation

  • Seeing people living healthy and productive days can inspire us to try too.
  • It positively influences us to try new routines, experiences and activities.
  • For example: “day in the life” videos.

Help 2: Hobbies

  • The online world introduces us to many hobbies, helping us find new interests.
  • Examples include BookTok, crocheting and cooking.
  • Social media offers free access to recipes and cooking methods, helping people learn healthy meals.

Help 3: Communication

  • Social media allows us to keep in contact with friends and family.
  • It helps us stay in touch with people who may live far away.

Harm: Unrealistic Expectations

  • Influencers often show routines, clothes, food and experiences that may lead to envy.
  • We may feel upset due to not fitting those standards.
  • It can affect how we eat, dress, socialise and live.
  • People often focus on what they lack or cannot do.
  • This can be harmful to mental health.
  • Remember that people online are not always what they seem.
  • Media is not always real — focus on accepting yourself.